Run the Knight

There is a lot of talent in the Central Texas area, but arguably the best running back is someone that most people are unaware of. Junior running back Re’Shaun Sanford from Harker Heights has been putting on a clinic this season, as he’s rushed for 2,057 yards in nine games this season.

Sanford, 5-foot-9, 170 pounds, is the first player in school history to rush for over 2000 yards in a season, which is a goal that he set for himself during the summer. He also leads the Knights in most rushing yards in a game (366), most rushing attempts in a game (37), and most rushing touchdowns in a game (5).

“It feels really great to accomplish my goal to be honest. At first it felt kind of regular, but once it set in, it felt unreal,” said Sanford. “My coaches and teammates have helped me see how big of an accomplishment it really is. Of course I’m proud of myself, but I’m not satisfied. I still feel like there’s more work to be done, there always is.”

Like most athletes, Sanford’s passion for football began at an early age. The people closest to Sanford could tell that he was special and they encouraged him to combine his raw talent with his love for the sport and the rest is literally history.

“I started playing when I was 4 years old. When I was little, my family said I was really fast and I always loved playing football outside,” said Sanford. “I’d see football on the tv all the time as well and it grew on me ever since then.”

His speed was on full display this past week, as he carried the ball 15 times for 178 yards and 5TD, leading the Knights to a 64-14 win over Copperas Cove to improve to 8-1, 5-1 on the season.

There is more to Sanford than just football. The junior really enjoys reading and is an avid nature enthusiast. His humble nature away from the game and his passion to learn new things are key elements to what makes him so successful on the field.

“I usually do my school work, read books, and watch film to see what I can get better at,” said Sanford. “I help around the house, workout, spend time with my mom and sisters, and go outside and admire nature. I really enjoy the other aspects of life, it helps keep things in perspective for me.”

Family is key for Sanford. He is really close with his mother, who has been a mentor to him throughout his life. She has installed a strong moral compass into Sanford and makes sure that he understands that there is a lot more to life than just football.

“My mom has had the most impact on my life by far. She’s been there for me from the beginning and always had my back,” said Sanford. “She always lifts me up and is a mentor to me. She has taught me life long lessons along the way, without her, I definitely wouldn’t be where I’m at now.”

You can’t be a running back without getting compared to others, or looking for inspiration from some of the greatest to play the position. Sanford’s style of play has drawn comparisons to some of the best the game has ever seen.

“A lot of people say I run like Alvin Kamara, and I have had some comparisons to Tony Pollard. It might sound crazy, but I've had some comparisons to Barry Sanders as well,” said Sanford. “My favorite running backs are in fact Alvin Kamara, Barry Sanders, and Saquon Barkley.”

Sometimes you need that extra spark to help you get ready, that one song that will put you in the mindset to conquer the world. Sanford likes a lot of music and artists, but given an opportunity to pick just one song before hitting the field, why not a song titled “Focused”.

“If i had to choose one song before a game it would have to be Focused by Gherbo to be honest,” said Sanford. “He’s my favorite rapper and he really gets me in that ‘lock in it’s go time type mode’, so I always listen to him on game days.”

Sanford’s stock is starting to rise in the recruiting world as well. He is currently listed as a 3-star prospect and holds offers from North Texas, UL Monroe, Illinois State, and Central Arkansas. During the offseason, Sanford competes with Fury 7-on-7 on the national circuit.

This week, Sanford and the Knights will host Bryan on Thursday night at 7:00pm for the final game of the regular season, before gearing up for the playoffs next week.